Water Patrol targeting holiday

Mild temperatures and sunny skies, a long weekend and little chance of rain will add up to thousands of boaters and motorists traveling to the Lake of the Ozarks for the July 4 holiday weekend.

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The Lake News Online

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Posted Jul. 2, 2013 at 9:00 AM

Posted Jul. 2, 2013 at 9:00 AM

Lake of the Ozarks

Mild temperatures and sunny skies, a long weekend and little chance of rain will add up to thousands of boaters and motorists traveling to the Lake of the Ozarks for the July 4 holiday weekend.

On the water and on land, the Missouri Highway Patrol is urging drivers of boats and vehicles to slow down, pay attention and drink responsibly. The July 4 holiday is one of the busiest of the summer season, especially on the water.

The highway patrol will be out in full force over the holiday. Their enforcement efforts could be increased if the United States Coast Guard lends a hand over the four-day weekend.

1. Be sure to use protection whether it is a seat belt or personal flotation device. If you are in or near the water, have a personal floatation device on hand.

2. Obey the rules of the roadways and waterways. If you are unfamiliar with the rules, educate yourself. Remember there is a night-time speed limit on the lake for a reason, Be sure all navigational lights are working properly.

3. If you plan on driving a vehicle or a boat, do not use alcohol and get plenty of rest.

4. If you do plan on using alcohol, designate a driver whether on land or water.

5. Practice patience. The roadways and water will be crowded during the holiday weekend. A little patience will go a long way.

Although the highway patrol did not release when, they did announce a sobriety checkpoint/saturation will be held in Camden County in July.

The release did not indicate if the checkpoint would be on land or water or both.

For assistance from the highway patrol regardless of whether you are on a boat or in a vehicle, call *55. On the water, if possible know the mile marker closest to your location.